The Wedge(wood) House Breathes New Life Into a 1970s Classic

Pocket doors, a feature where a door glides into a wall rather than swinging open, are experiencing a significant resurgence in home design. This renewed popularity is driven by their ability to save space, offer versatile use of rooms, and add a touch of dramatic flair to interiors. Designers universally praise pocket doors for their clean aesthetic and practical advantages, especially in compact areas such as bathrooms, closets, and pantries, where traditional swinging doors might obstruct movement or functionality. They provide flexibility in design without compromising style, fitting seamlessly into both modern and traditional home aesthetics. The increasing trend towards closed-concept layouts, moving away from the previously dominant open-plan designs, also contributes to the comeback of pocket doors. Homeowners are seeking ways to create distinct zones within their living spaces without resorting to permanent walls. Beyond interior applications, glass pocket doors are being utilized on home exteriors to maximize natural light and foster an open, expansive feel. The ability of pocket doors to disappear into the wall when open allows for unobstructed pathways and a more fluid transition between areas. When closed, they can create a sense of privacy and separation, acting as a statement piece that reveals or conceals spaces. Several specific benefits underpin the designers' enthusiasm for pocket doors. They are effective in reducing noise, a common issue in open-concept homes, by allowing occupants to easily close off areas for quiet activities or to contain sound from lively gatherings. Their versatility extends to various applications, including creating privacy in libraries or studies, partitioning pet areas, or serving as a contemporary alternative to standard doors. A key factor in their comeback is the significant improvement in hardware technology over the last decade. Modern pocket door systems feature soft open-and-close mechanisms, synchronized hardware for double doors, and flush-closing designs, elevating them from a potentially problematic element to a sophisticated architectural feature. Moreover, pocket doors offer practical solutions for awkwardly shaped or compact spaces where overlapping door swings or tight hallways pose design challenges. They are particularly beneficial in older homes with unique architectural details that require creative problem-solving. In primary suites, especially in urban environments like New York City brownstones where space is at a premium, pocket doors are ideal for connecting walk-in closets and primary bathrooms without sacrificing floor space or disrupting the flow. Beyond functionality, pocket doors also contribute to visual appeal. Designers are incorporating solid wood pocket doors, sometimes with frosted or seeded glass, to allow light while maintaining privacy and adding an element of elegance. The demand for pocket doors is expected to continue, as they serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, offering a timeless design solution that conserves space and enhances the architectural character of a home. #PocketDoors #HomeDesign #SpaceSaving #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #DesignTrends #VersatileDesign #HomeRenovation

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

This article details the transformation of a 1970s project home in Fingal on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula from an understated coastal cottage into a contemporary masterpiece. The property, situated on 2.4 hectares, was initially acquired by a professional couple a decade ago despite its neglected state. They initially converted it into a simple white cottage and lived there for ten years before embarking on a more ambitious renovation and extension project. The renovation aimed to create a family home that fostered connection while accommodating entertaining needs, particularly for their adult children and friends. Interior designer Deanne Penberthy Jolly, in collaboration with architects S Group, led the twelve-month project, completed in 2019. The design strategy involved retaining the original house, reimagining it as a tranquil 'sleeping pavilion,' and adding a new U-shaped wing. This new extension features an open-plan kitchen with a butler’s pantry and mudroom, as well as airy living zones, including a sunken lounge with a fireplace. These new areas are characterized by soaring raked ceilings with exposed beams and offer views of a swimming pool, tennis court, and a winter garden equipped with a pizza oven, making the home suitable for all seasons and various entertainment scenarios. The interior design focused on creating a warm and highly textured environment with a neutral base, drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings. Deanne Penberthy Jolly layered organic materials such as timber, stone, concrete, and leather. A consistent color theme of Dulux Deep Bottlebrush was applied to kitchen cabinetry, joinery, and mudroom walls, referencing the property's olive and tea trees and imparting a sense of harmony. The designer intentionally aimed for an 'understated' decor that would not feel 'overworked,' prioritizing calmness and relaxation. Polished plaster walls, striking pendant lights, tactile wallpaper, and large-scale artworks further contribute to the home's aesthetic appeal. A key aspect of the project's success was the strong collaborative relationship between the homeowners and the design team, particularly with Deanne. The homeowners emphasized the importance of being actively involved in the design process, fostering a sense of shared excitement and breakthrough moments. This close partnership ensured the final design aligned perfectly with the couple's vision for a family-oriented, entertaining space deeply connected to its natural environment. Although the family has since moved, the transformed coastal farmhouse remains a significant project for both the homeowners and the designer. #HomeRenovation #1970sHome #MorningtonPeninsula #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving

Holly and Michael Schmidt undertook a significant renovation of their 1972 deck house in South Hamilton, aiming to restore its original mid-century modern aesthetic, which had been obscured by traditional styling. The couple collaborated with Reading-based design/build firm Lee Kimball, known for its expertise in mid-century modern homes, particularly those from the Acorn Deck House Company. Designer Erica Palm from Lee Kimball spearheaded the project, focusing on reversing alterations that had made the house resemble a Colonial-style home. Initial changes involved removing superficial traditional elements like heavy drapery, plaid wallpaper, and ornate light fixtures. More substantial work included addressing anachronistic features such as raised panel cabinetry and beadboard wainscoting. A key part of the restoration was uncovering and preserving the home's original tongue and groove cedar ceilings, which had been hidden beneath drywall in some areas. While the entry's cedar ceilings were in good condition, structural supports were reconfigured to eliminate a low, boxed-in beam. An unusual second-floor balcony, no longer accessible due to removed stairs, was also taken down. The large living room, featuring a 12-foot cedar plank ceiling, was transformed into a comfortable and stylish gathering space. The Schmidts, with two sons, desired a home where their children and their friends and families would feel welcome. Palm designed the room with a 10-foot sectional centered on a fireplace, which was modernized with granite veneer. The wet bar was updated with sleek gray cabinetry and hexagonal glass tile. Two navy leather Barcelona chairs were incorporated as a nod to the mid-century modern era, carefully selected to avoid overwhelming the space with period-specific furniture. The den was designed as a more intimate retreat for Holly and Michael. It features two oversized, velvet armchairs upholstered in tie-dyed Italian velvet, facing another wood-burning fireplace. This fireplace was refreshed with white paint, while its original floating bluestone hearth was retained. The kitchen renovation maintained the existing layout, with a peninsula separating it from a sitting area equipped with four swivel chairs. This area was envisioned as a kitchen lounge for entertaining or for the sons to relax, rather than an additional dining space. A standout feature in the kitchen is a three-dimensional glass tile backsplash in a turquoise hue, complementing the restored fir ceiling. A dark-stained exposed beam was added for accent. The renovation successfully harmonized the interior with the home's original architecture, moving away from previous incongruous design choices. The project underscores the homeowners' vision and the design team's ability to revitalize a property by respecting its inherent style while updating it for contemporary living. The interior now complements its architectural heritage, effectively reversing years of stylistic deviations. #HomeRenovation #MidCenturyModern #DeckHouse #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #LeeKimball #EricaPalm #SouthHamilton

Jennifer Liffman's journey into interior design began in 2012 during a vacation in Florida, where an encounter with Coastal Living’s Ultimate Beach House ignited a long-dormant passion. Despite this initial spark, her formal pursuit of design education did not commence until early 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, while at home with her family, Jennifer enrolled in a distance-learning program at the New York Institute of Art and Design, delving into various aspects of interior design from hand drafting to space planning. This educational experience culminated in the launch of her own design firm in 2022, and she subsequently joined the interiors team at Craft Realty/Interiors/Homes. Simultaneously with her professional development, Jennifer applied her burgeoning design expertise to her family's late-1960s ranch-style home in Jefferson Terrace. The Liffmans had moved into the home in August 2016 and initiated a series of renovations to align the space with their family's lifestyle. Exterior modifications included painting the brick for a more contemporary aesthetic, while interior changes involved replacing carpeting and tile with wood flooring and expanding the opening between the foyer and living room. These foundational updates paved the way for personalization, with each space being brightened and infused with unique touches. The renovation project was a collaborative family endeavor. Jennifer’s father, John Hawkins, contributed significantly by constructing custom shelves and cabinets for the living room, laundry room, and primary suite bathroom. Her husband, Eric, applied Venetian plaster finishes to select walls, adding textural depth. The home also became a showcase for art, prominently featuring works by Eric’s mother, artist Christy Diniz-Liffman, as well as pieces from other professional artists within their extended family, reflecting the couple's shared appreciation for art. A central theme in Jennifer's decorating philosophy is the integration of meaningful artworks, antique furnishings, and heirloom pieces that carry sentimental value. Examples include an antique iron bed and desk in her daughter Emma’s room, which previously belonged to Eric’s sister, and recovered wingback chairs from her grandmother that now grace the living room. Her coffee table exemplifies this blend of old and new, featuring an antique wood base paired with a new limestone top. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of creating thoughtful, collected spaces that blend time-honored items with contemporary elements, as seen with a hutch in her dining room, a piece inherited from her grandmother that she uses daily. The transformation of her home remains an ongoing process, with Jennifer continuously applying her evolving design skills to spaces like the master bedroom. Beyond her personal residence, she and the Craft Interiors team are actively involved in designing custom finishes for luxury home builds and are preparing for a significant 5,000-square-foot remodel. Jennifer acknowledges that her personal style is still developing and embraces the eclectic nature of her home, which accommodates her growing children, pets, and the continuous evolution of her design aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #FamilyProject #EclecticStyle #AntiqueFurniture #HeirloomPieces #HomeDecor #DesignCareer

This article details the transformation of a 1930s house in Hyde Park, Austin, Texas, by designer Ali Burgoon Nolan of Studio Burgoon. The property, originally built in 1939, had been untouched for 50 years and lacked character and a functional layout, despite its desirable location. The renovation aimed to reintroduce period charm, create a more livable flow, and personalize the space with vintage furniture and collected decor. The initial phase of the project involved a significant reconfiguring of the home's layout. The living room was relocated from a front bedroom to the back of the house, which previously served as the primary bedroom. This change was crucial for establishing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection between the kitchen, living room, and backyard, accommodating the homeowners' love for entertaining and cooking. Furthermore, an original bedroom was converted into a mudroom and laundry room, complemented by a new side entry porch. To compensate for the loss of a bedroom and expand the living space, a two-story addition was constructed at the back of the home. This addition created a spacious great room downstairs and a serene primary suite upstairs, which has become the heart of the home, offering a peaceful, treehouse-like retreat with views of the lush backyard greenery. With the functional layout established, the focus shifted to injecting character and authenticity into the decor. Ali Burgoon Nolan drew inspiration from classic Arts and Crafts architecture, blending historic details with a cozy, lived-in style that felt true to the property's era. Efforts were made to uncover and celebrate original features, such as longleaf pine shiplap. New elements, like transom windows with mouth-blown restoration glass, were carefully integrated to enhance the home's historic character. Vintage-inspired accents were strategically placed throughout the house to add layers of story and soul, creating a space that feels both refined and approachable. Notable design elements include a custom home bar and media unit crafted from old-growth, quarter-sawn white oak, featuring distinctive heavy ray fleck patterns. The bar incorporates architectural waffle glass in its upper cabinets, providing a vintage texture that complements the home’s 1930s roots and subtly concealing a collection of vintage cocktail glasses. The primary bedroom stands out as a tranquil retreat, designed with luxurious features such as motorized drapes, custom furniture, and an authentic tripod table by French designer Charles Dudouyt. Custom nightstands with finger joint drawer details and integrated charging cutouts highlight the blend of functionality and aesthetics. The custom bed, upholstered in Virginia Kraft Moroccan Stripe fabric, is set against an olive board-and-batten wall. Personal touches abound, including an English campaign-style dresser, a commissioned triptych inspired by the homeowner's travels, and an antique tapestry, all contributing to a unique and meaningful design. A pendant light by Josef Hoffmann with a terracotta tassel provides a subtle sculptural elegance, completing the cohesive and inspiring atmosphere. The thoughtful integration of vintage pieces, personal mementos, and period-appropriate craftsmanship has successfully revived the 1930s home, honoring its origins while creating a comfortable and inviting contemporary living space. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #VintageFurniture #PeriodCharm #ArtsAndCrafts #LayoutReconfiguration #HomeBar #PrimaryBedroom #CustomFurniture #TexasHome

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller

Brynn Jones, owner of Aralda Vintage, and her husband, Ness Saban, an indie film distributor, transformed their 1963 Robert Lee-designed home in Los Angeles. Jones, who has a lifelong affinity for 1960s and 1970s aesthetics, recognized the potential in the three-bedroom house despite some outdated decor. While Saban initially needed more convincing, Jones envisioned the possibilities, leading them to enlist Frances Merrill of Reath Design to revitalize the property. The home’s original dark wood paneling and brickwork, which date back to 1963, were considered essential elements to retain for their warmth and coziness. However, the kitchen and bathrooms, which had undergone poor remodels in the 1990s, required complete renovation. Jones's design vision was heavily influenced by her love for vintage fashion, drawing inspiration from the homes of style icons like Gloria Vanderbilt, Diana Vreeland, and Diane von Furstenberg, as well as '60s and '70s design magazines. Merrill embraced this approach, encouraging unusual color combinations and bold patterns. The initial phase of the renovation involved a simple yet impactful change: repainting the common areas, original built-ins, and doors from an institutional gray to a rich emerald green. This color choice effectively unified the existing paneling and brickwork. In the kitchen, a glossy chartreuse tiled backsplash was introduced, creating a vibrant contrast that surprisingly complemented the walnut and cream cabinets and dark wood. The primary bathroom became a canvas for more experimental color, featuring a checkerboard pattern of light purple, burgundy, and scarlet tiles, a peachy marble countertop with rose veins, and purple marble lining the shower. Jones acknowledged the intensity of this design, humorously noting a friend's comparison to a Stanley Kubrick film. Beyond color, patterns played a significant role in the home's transformation. The office features a botanical Hermès wallpaper, providing a psychedelic backdrop for a custom desk and wall unit. The main bedroom embraces a moodier ambiance due to a lack of natural light. Jones selected a kaleidoscopic House of Hackney design for the window drapes, bedding, and wallpaper, extending it to the ceiling. Despite the abundance of prints, Jones found the olive green and dark teal color palette to be calming, while Saban humorously described the room as being inside a wrapped, inverted present. The final phase of the renovation focused on the nursery for their son, Odin. Jones aimed to create a stimulating and charming space that avoided a stereotypical kid's room feel. This was achieved with a daybed reupholstered in dinosaur fabric, baby bedding made from mismatched Liberty London textiles, a dusty-blue sky mural by Londubh Studios painted across cabinetry and the ceiling, and a plush custom carpet designed to resemble a coral reef, laid over a purple linoleum floor. The nursery also features a custom clothing and storage nook, a former closet converted into built-in cabinetry, painted in dusty blue and pale lavender to provide a soothing atmosphere. This playful and imaginative design philosophy, first established in the nursery, extends throughout the entire home. #HomeTour #VintageInspired #InteriorDesign #LosAngelesHome #RetroDesign #BoldColors #PatternMixing #RenovationProject #ReathDesign

The center hall cottage located at 503 Adams St. in New Orleans, built in 1888, showcases a unique blend of its original late 19th-century architectural features and a distinct 1970s aesthetic. Current owner Christine Albert purchased the house seven years ago, finding it to be a "time capsule of the 1970s," which marked the last significant renovation period. Albert's design approach respects the historical integrity of the 1880s structure while incorporating 1970s-inspired colors and patterns, creating an eclectic and personalized living space. The cottage retains its original characteristics, such as high ceilings, wood floors, tall windows, fireplaces, pocket doors, and a front porch adorned with decorative arches featuring cut-out circles. Albert acquired the property at an estate sale, drawn particularly to its front porch, which she frequently uses for informal gatherings. Upon purchase, the house, though maintained by previous owners for several decades, required considerable renovation and care. The initial phase of renovations, undertaken with contractor Stephen Adams of Adams Construction, focused on essential upgrades. This included the installation of central air and heat, along with new plumbing and electrical systems. Other significant tasks involved exterior painting, restoration and replacement of shutters, installation of a new water heater, removal of old carpeting to reveal original wood floors, and comprehensive hardscaping and landscaping. This initial period of work spanned approximately 4.5 months. Albert consciously lived in the house for several months after the initial renovations before making decorative decisions, a piece of advice she received from friends experienced in home renovation. This allowed her to understand the space better before committing to further design choices. The original layout of the house, with the exception of eliminating a door between the primary and guest bedrooms, remains largely intact. Repairs and paint refreshes were also applied to the kitchen, bathroom, and a mother-in-law addition, believed to have been built in the 1920s or 1930s. Following the necessary structural and utility updates, Albert collaborated with Nomita Joshi-Gupta of Nomita Joshi Interior Design for the interior decoration, a process that unfolded over four years. Joshi-Gupta described Albert as a sophisticated, well-traveled individual with a strong appreciation for color, pattern, and narrative, which informed the "bold stroke" design, aligning with Joshi-Gupta's Indian Modernist style. A key inspiration for the interior design was the 1970s gold damask pattern wallpaper found in the front parlor, which served as a reference point for the overall vintage vibe and color palette. This mustard yellow hue, originating from the front parlor wallpaper, extends to the ceiling of the adjoining room, formerly a dining room and now part of a double parlor connected by original cased openings with pocket doors. A 1970s-inspired zigzag pattern, present in the front parlor rug, is creatively repeated in the bathroom's wallpaper and in the upholstery of a club chair in the guest room, inherited from Albert's godparents. The home also features other cherished, sentimental items, such as Albert's childhood piano, an art deco side table from her mother's first apartment, and custom artworks depicting her dogs, including a piece by Martin Laborde in the second parlor. Many of the furnishings, including the blue Chesterfield sofa in the second parlor, burled chests in the foyer, a glass-top coffee table in the front parlor, and various paintings, were sourced from local consignment shops, estate sales, and auctions, emphasizing a vintage and eclectic collection. Bold statement lighting is a prominent feature throughout the house, with examples like a modernist chandelier in the living room and a large metal leaf fixture in the second parlor. The most recent renovation project involved the bathroom, showcasing a combination of colorful floral wallpaper, the recurring zigzag paper, and a custom-designed Cristallo quartzite vanity complemented by sconces resembling oversized jewels. Albert also has plans for future updates to the kitchen. The home is one of six featured in the Preservation Resource Center's Spring Home Tour, highlighting New Orleans' vernacular architecture. #NewOrleansCottage #HomeDesign #VintageDecor #1970sInspired #1880sArchitecture #EclecticInteriors #RenovationProject #HistoricalPreservation #InteriorDesign

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Federal-style town house in New York’s West Village by SPAN Architecture, converting it from multi-family apartments into a single-family residence. The original structure, an 1820s building, presented challenges such as deep lots leading to dark interiors, insufficient natural light on lower floors, and low ceilings. Recognizing these limitations and the absence of significant period details for restoration, principals Peter Pelsinski and Karen Stonely opted for a comprehensive gut renovation. A key aspect of the renovation capitalized on the property’s 60-foot backyard, enabling the architects to extend the first two floors by 30 feet while preserving ample outdoor space. To enhance the connection to the garden, the rear facade was removed, a second-floor terrace was added, and full-height windows were installed facing north, integrating modern design elements while respecting the historic lines of the surrounding houses. Internally, the building lacked a cellar, prompting excavation to create one. The roof was also leveled, increasing interior height by nearly eight feet, which required careful restructuring of ceilings to align with the existing front facade windows. The result is a 5,800-square-foot, four-bedroom home spanning five levels, featuring ceilings over ten feet high on the parlor floor, yet maintaining an unaltered exterior appearance. The interior design consciously blends traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Given the project's spec nature, a neutral palette was chosen, featuring white oak floors that establish a fluid connection between spaces. Subtle historical references are incorporated through baseboards, trim, and crown moldings. The steel-and-oak staircase, while traditional in form, lacks nosing and respects the original footprint, complemented by skylights that draw natural light deep into the lower levels, giving the house an “extroverted character” as Pelsinski describes. The property was acquired by a young family who enlisted Moises Esquenazi of Waowig Studio for interior decoration, providing him considerable artistic freedom. Esquenazi focused on creating inviting spaces that would complement the family’s art collection. His design approach included bold choices, such as a fuchsia-colored den, intended as a lively focal point upon entry. This vibrant room sets a playful tone for the rest of the home, which integrates contemporary Latin American art with pieces by mid-century designers like Milo Baughman and Pierre Guariche. Esquenazi also designed custom furnishings, including a lacquered-goatskin dining table, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. Two years after the family moved in, SPAN Architecture was re-engaged to modernize the kitchen and expand the master bathroom into a spa-like retreat, concluding a decade-long project. The revitalized town house now offers a bright, open living environment, seamlessly integrated into its urban setting while providing ample personal space. #TownHouseRenovation #SPANArchitecture #WestVillage #HistoricHome #ModernInteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #InteriorRenovation #LuxuryHomes

Lisa and Gary Mieran, owners of Akyrah Kitchens, designed and largely built their two-storey, industrial-style home with modernist influences in Gympie, Queensland. The house, completed in December 2019 after a two-stage construction, is situated on land historically owned by Lisa's family. The design draws inspiration from Heide II, a modernist icon in Melbourne, celebrating concrete, timber, abundant light, and earthy tones. Lisa envisioned a home that would rise organically from the earth, becoming an integral part of the landscape and improving with age. The structure features off-form concrete, walls of glass, and tactile timbers, with the lower storey clad in cedar and the upper storey in recycled hardwood. Steel balustrading, handcrafted by Gary, complements the exterior, which also includes a swimming pool with Andorra limestone pavers. The interior features a breezeway offering spectacular views and airflow, with ceilings made of Henley Oak Grove engineered timber. The foyer includes a BassamFellows 'Geometric' day bed and artworks by Steve Waller. Given their expertise with Akyrah Kitchens, the kitchen in their home is a highlight, featuring blackbutt veneer doors, Basaltina benchtops, Circa taps from Brodware, and Inax 'Ceravio G' tiles. The living areas include a guest sitting area with a B&B Italia 'Le Bambole' sofa and a living room with a Cheminées Philippe fireplace and Jardan furnishings. The home was built in two stages to accommodate their grown children, Taren and Kirra. The first stage was a self-contained flat, which served as their temporary residence during the main build and now functions as a guest wing. The main house and another guest wing are connected by glassed walkways, with the main bedroom suite located upstairs. This design allows for three self-contained bedrooms with ensuites, providing private quarters for everyone while centralizing communal living spaces. Practicality and functionality are key design principles, evident in the integrated laundry within the bathroom behind a blackbutt joinery feature wall, and the kitchen's two large islands designed for simplicity and ample storage. The materials used throughout the home emphasize natural elements. Recycled timber is used for the upper storey and blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the seamless flow of concrete from exterior to interior reinforces the architectural aesthetic. The home is designed for climate control, with generous light for winter warmth and cross-breezes for summer cooling. Lisa also undertook the landscaping, incorporating native plants like Xanthorrhoea, pandanus, native grasses, and succulents. The furniture, much of it Australian-made from brands like Jardan, is chosen for its timeless appeal and durability, reflecting the couple's preference for classic design over fleeting trends. The house stands as a testament to the couple's comprehensive involvement and shared vision, combining their professional skills with personal passions to create a harmonious and functional living space. #ModernistArchitecture #IndustrialStyle #ConcreteDesign #TimberAccents #SustainableMaterials #HomeDesign #OwnerBuilt #QueenslandHome #InteriorDesign

Interior designer Wendy Labrum collaborated with Michael Abraham Architecture over two and a half years to transform a 6,000-square-foot, six-bedroom, seven-bathroom 1926 Chicago home for a family with three young children. The design intent was to create a cozy yet sophisticated environment, blending the elegance of an English country estate with contemporary elements. The homeowners, described as having discerning taste but preferring understated luxury, sought a design that celebrated history over generic new constructions. Labrum emphasizes a layered approach to design, believing that a mix of eras prevents a space from feeling monotonous. This philosophy is evident throughout the residence, beginning with the dining room. Here, white oak paneling, reminiscent of traditional studies, is integrated without making the space heavy. It features a travertine table and leather dining chairs, creating a rich yet balanced aesthetic. The main level walls are finished with plaster, providing a nuanced and layered neutral backdrop that unifies the diverse design elements. Vintage Italian and French accessories, particularly lighting fixtures, are strategically placed to punctuate the decor. Labrum, an art history enthusiast, personally curated the abstract art collection displayed throughout the home, juxtaposing modern pieces with antiques to give the spaces intentional depth and character. The property extends beyond the main house to a previously unused garage, which Labrum converted into a 2,500-square-foot poolhouse and guest suite. This auxiliary space continues the warm color palette and contemporary-vintage mix found in the main residence, featuring honey tones and vintage wood furniture. The home also showcases a technique dubbed "pattern drenching," where bold patterns are used extensively within a restrained color palette. Examples include a guest room and an attic home office, both entirely covered in striped fabric, demonstrating a bold yet elegant use of pattern. Specific rooms highlight these design principles: the office features Kerry Joyce fabric for wallcovering and a sofa, alongside an Oscar Isberian rug. The living room is anchored by a custom silk velvet sofa from Bradley, complemented by vintage René Drouet and Warren Platner chairs, a Cassina stool, and art by Jared Green. The sunroom, designed to be a warm retreat during Chicago's long winters, includes custom sofas upholstered in Edelman Leather shearling, Nobilis draperies, and Rose Uniacke pendants. The kitchen combines reclaimed wood beams with a striking Calacatta Viola backsplash and counters, furnished with a Lacanche range, Apparatus lighting, Waterworks faucets, and Rose Uniacke stools. An unused nook was converted into a custom banquette for family activities, featuring an S. Harris Roman shade, a 1stDibs table, and art by Mirjam de Nijs and Frédéric Heurlier Cimolaï. The dining room boasts a geometric plaster chandelier by Alexandre Logé, art by Matthias Fabre, and Cassina chairs. The guest bedroom employs a single Fabricut fabric for walls, bed, and shades, creating a cohesive and impactful design, enhanced by a contemporary Pierre Guariche wall lamp. The boys’ bathroom features a custom muddy taupe paint color, vintage sconces, Kohler fixtures, and accessories from The Water Monopoly. The poolhouse incorporates ample wood elements, vintage Axel Einar Hjorth furniture, Perennials fabric seat cushions, Van Cronenburg hardware, and vintage Florian Schulz pendants. Finally, a previously dark screened-in porch was transformed into an inviting space with a curvy sofa in Perennials fabric, McLean Lighting Works pendants, and an Atelier Vime lamp. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #LuxuryHomes #ChicagoHomes #WendyLabrum #PatternDrenching #VintageDecor #ContemporaryDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

The article details the challenges and solutions involved in revitalizing the facade of a colonial home in Far Hills, New Jersey. The homeowner, Brian Truss, faced significant issues with the original cedar siding, including rot, mold, and insect infiltration, necessitating a complete replacement. The primary concern was to restore the exterior without compromising the home's distinctive colonial character, which featured complex trim work and extensive molding profiles. Traditional wood siding presented a continuous cycle of maintenance, and the homeowner sought a durable, low-maintenance alternative. CREO Construction, led by sales and design specialist Joe Hydro and operations manager Mike Crowell, proposed using AZEK Exteriors' comprehensive PVC system. This system was chosen for its ability to replicate the numerous existing molding profiles, ensuring that the home's architectural integrity would be maintained. The team highlighted that the AZEK system was unique in its capability to match the 10 to 12 different types of molding present on the house, offering a complete solution from trim to siding to blocks. The installation process revealed several practical advantages of the AZEK material. Its lightweight nature facilitated easier handling and faster installation, significantly reducing labor time. The material's clip system further contributed to the efficiency of the process. A key innovation discussed is the AZEK Lap Siding's floating installation system, which allows for natural expansion and contraction. Unlike traditional products that are rigidly tied to studs, this floating mechanism accommodates material movement, particularly around openings, preventing common issues associated with exterior materials. Another significant improvement was the elimination of visible maintenance points. The AZEK system avoids the need for caulk around windows, doors, and trim, addressing a common complaint from homeowners about other renovation projects. The 16-foot panel lengths minimize visible seams, contributing to cleaner sight lines across the facade. Combined with hidden fasteners and rabbeted trims, the overall result is a remarkably seamless finish that surpasses traditional installations in aesthetic quality and longevity. From the homeowners' perspective, the primary benefit of the AZEK system is its longevity and low maintenance. Hydro emphasized that AZEK Lap Siding requires no painting and is designed to maintain its original appearance for decades, eliminating the cyclical maintenance associated with traditional cedar siding. The renovation successfully preserved the home’s original architectural proportions and details, but now with materials engineered for durability and minimal upkeep. The outcome is a home that looks virtually identical to its original charming state, but without the persistent degradation and maintenance demands of its former exterior. #ColonialHome #ExteriorRenovation #SidingReplacement #AZEKExteriors #PVCBuildingMaterials #HomeMaintenance #ArchitecturalPreservation #DurableMaterials #LowMaintenance

Zen Architects, a Melbourne-based firm with 30 years of experience combining science and art in sustainably minded projects, undertook a comprehensive renovation of an early 1900s Victorian home in Brunswick. The property, untouched for five decades and slated for demolition due to asbestos, was purchased by clients who sought an architect willing to execute a challenging renovation emphasizing local materials, recycled timber, and space for an art studio. The clients desired a design that respected the original cottage's form and detailing, diverging from the prevalent trend of demolishing Victorians for new, often insensitive, developments in an area without historic controls. The project spanned nearly three years, including 18 months of design and documentation and 14 months of construction. The initial phase focused on preserving the original structure. This involved restoring the weatherboard exterior, original Baltic pine timber flooring, and Victorian details. The interior plaster was removed, walls were reinsulated, and windows reglazed. The eastern portion of the roofline was raised to accommodate higher ceilings. To maintain the property's heritage value, all new construction was set back behind the original chimney line. The design team reconfigured the front four rooms: two became bedrooms, one a bathroom, and the fourth a front living room featuring a wood-burning fireplace that utilized the existing chimney. From the light-filled foyer, residents can now access the kitchen, a double-height dining room, and a sunken conversation pit, all offering views of the garden. Throughout the renovation, Zen Architects prioritized local sourcing. Custom lighting was crafted from solid brass, and internal recycled timber details, such as shelving, were produced by local furniture makers. The bathrooms feature custom handmade tiles from a South Melbourne ceramicist, and all fixtures and fittings were also locally sourced. The kitchen incorporates a solid concrete island counter designed for passive heating and cooling; it warms naturally in the summer, and a concealed black heat panel beneath the slab absorbs and releases heat in the winter. An adjacent art studio benefits from ambient diffused south-facing light, providing an ideal space for various artistic pursuits. This project demonstrates a successful approach to sensitively transforming Victorian homes to meet contemporary living standards while adhering to principles of sustainability and local craftsmanship. #VictorianRenovation #SustainableDesign #ZenArchitects #MelbourneArchitecture #HistoricPreservation #RecycledMaterials #LocalCraftsmanship #HomeRetrofit #ArtStudio